KWTV Helicopter Pilot Reporter
- Oklahoma City, OK
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Pilot the news helicopter safely and efficiently. Conduct pre-flight and post-flight inspections. Ensure the helicopter is maintained according to safety standards and regulations.
- Collaborate with the assignment desk, news directors and producers to plan coverage of news stories. Provide live aerial footage for news broadcasts. Capture high-quality video footage and still images of news events, traffic conditions, and other relevant subjects.
- Report live from the helicopter, providing clear, and accurate narration. Conduct live interviews when necessary. Deliver timely updates on breaking news and ongoing stories.
- Work closely with the onboard Helicopter Video Journalist and newsroom personnel to ensure smooth operation and communication.
- Adhere to all applicable FAA regulations and company safety policies. Stay updated on weather conditions and adjust flight plans accordingly. Participate in regular safety training and drills.
- Maintain detailed flight logs and records. Report any mechanical issues or incidents to the Statewide News Operations Manager.
- Participate in team meetings and editorial discussions.
- Perform other job-related duties as assigned, including driving an automobile for company business.
- Humble: A habit of sharing successes, putting the team first, and working for the good of the team. A “we” not “me” attitude. The ability to give and receive constructive criticism. Observe and employ the Golden Rule.
- Hungry: Exhibit a strong work ethic, drive, and willingness to take initiative.
- Smart: The virtue of being interpersonally smart about the interactions and relationships of those you encounter.
- Positive Attitude: Exhibited by focusing on opportunities not problems, see the glass as half-full not half-empty.
- Sense of Urgency: How we react and respond.
- Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism or related field preferred. Related experience will be evaluated and may be substituted as years of education.
- Minimum of 10 years of helicopter piloting experience preferred. Experience in news gathering or a related field preferred.
- Valid FAA Commercial Rotorcraft Pilot License (Rotorcraft).
- Current FAA Class 1 Medical Certificate.
- Employment will terminate once the employee reaches the age of 70.
- Bell Training School Certification for Bell 206L4 and Bell 505 Helicopters
- Strong piloting and navigation skills.
- Excellent communication and reporting skills.
- Proficiency with camera operation and broadcast equipment.
- Ability to work under pressure and in fast-paced environments.
- Strong sense of news judgment and storytelling.
- High level of professionalism and ethical standards.
- Ability to remain calm and focused during live broadcasts and emergency situations.
- Must be willing to work irregular hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Ability to handle the physical demands of piloting and operating camera equipment including exposure to various weather conditions during flight operations.
- Must have, or be able to obtain, a valid Oklahoma driver’s license and have a driving record acceptable to the company. This is a designated safety sensitive position.
- Ability to perform other job-related duties as assigned.
- Capable of handling the physical and mental requirements including:
- ability to verbally communicate in English
- ability to read computer monitor information (words and data)
- ability to hear detailed spoken word
- ability to remain sedentary and to travel to work location
- ability to perform manual dexterity tasks with hands, fingers
- ability to analyze data, concentrate, reason, and write
- ability to perform under emotional stress
- ability to lift 50 pounds unaided
- ability to work rotating shifts and be on 24-hour call